New Delhi: Popular talent based reality show “Indian Idol” has launched its first junior edition, “Indian Idol Junior” and it will be judged by playback singer Shreya Ghoshal and music director duo Vishal and Shekhar.

The show will hunt the most versatile child singer in the age-group of 5 to 15 years. The auditions for the show have already begun and aims to cover more than 30 cities across the country.

“Indian Idol Junior is trying to create an environment which does not feel like a competition to children but it’s like a ‘vidyalaya’.

“I believe the music that children learn at this young age, will remain with them forever so we are trying to create an environment where they enjoy and it should not look like a competition,” said Shekhar.

The show would be Ghosal’s second stint in the reality show with children. She has earlier judged “Star Voice Of India-Chhote Ustaad”.

“I love kids I look forward to working with kids because its easier to talk to them. You don’t have to play with them they are the smartest when you say something to them they understand it instantly,” said Ghoshal, who herself started her singing career from a reality show.

Ghoshal, 29, said she is looking for children whose voice touches her heart and understands the lyrics of a song.

“We are fundamentally looking for talent, melody, technique and soul. The two most important things are soul and perfect notes. We are not focusing on presentable factor or star-material because if they have the talent they can do the rest,” said Vishal Dadlani.

“Indian Idol Junior” will be hosted by actress-anchor Mandira Bedi and TV actor Karan Wahi and the dates for airing the show are yet to be decided.